PT TOMORROW: NL Central—Mercer off to another rough start

 

Pittsburgh Pirates

Jordy Mercer (SS, PIT) hasn't been able to build off last year's strong second half, as he's had a tough start to the season. He's gone 8 for 39, with none of the hits going for extra bases, and to make matters worse, recently missed three games after taking a pitch to the ribs. Mercer returned to action April 24, and came through with the game-winning hit, but he'll need to step up his production in order to maintain a hold on the starting shortstop job.

While the door has perhaps been open for Jung-ho Kang (SS, PIT) to earn a larger share of playing time, he's failed to take advantage, batting just .200/.227/.250 in his first 20 at-bats. He hit 40 home runs in Korea in 2014, and probably has more upside with the...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From PT Tomorrow

Jeremiah Jackson (pictured) has seen more playing time than anticipated to open the season, but his time in the majors could be limited with Jackson Holliday's looming return. Plus, more from around the AL East.
Apr 7 2026 3:05am
It's time for the league and fantasy managers to start respecting the Marlins as a rising threat in the NL East. Plus: 1B at NYM; SP at PHI; 2B at WAS; DH at ATL; more.
Apr 6 2026 3:18am
For the NL West this week, we take a close look at Randy Vásquez's velocity changes, a looming pitching surprise in Arizona, and playing time outlooks for young guys trying to make a name for themselves.
Apr 4 2026 3:07am
CJ Kayfus had a bad night in left field on Sunday. Could it hurt his playing time going forward? Plus, a look at early lineups in CHW and DET, the closer situation in KC, and positional flexibility for the Twins C.J. Culpepper.
Apr 2 2026 3:05am

Tools